Method and apparatus for providing virtual channels

ABSTRACT

An approach is provided for presenting, via a set-top box, audio and/or video transmission to a user. An input is received from the user specifying media content that is accessible over a data network. The media content is retrieved over the data network, and presented via the set-top box.

BACKGROUND INFORMATION

With the advent of computers, interactive electronic communications, and the Internet, as well as advances in the digital realm of consumer information, has come a reinvention of conventional entertainment and communication services to enhance programming, recording, and viewing of multimedia, such as broadcast television programs. Traditionally broadcast media, being based on pre-computer age technology, has developed on its own path, without any regard to other media systems. With readily available, cost-effective broadband services, bandwidth intensive applications, such as audio and video streaming, have become viable medium. Unfortunately, little or no effort has been made to converge the two distinct paths.

Therefore, there is a need for an approach that seamlessly integrates traditional broadcast systems and broadband data networks for content delivery.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Various exemplary embodiments are illustrated by way of example, and not by way of limitation, in the figures of the accompanying drawings in which like reference numerals refer to similar elements and in which:

FIG. 1 is a diagram of a system capable of providing virtual channels of content accessible over a data network, according to an exemplary embodiment;

FIG. 2 is a diagram of a set-top box configured to provide virtual channels according to an exemplary embodiment;

FIG. 3 is a diagram of a main menu user interface of the set-top box of FIG. 2, according to an exemplary embodiment;

FIGS. 4a and 4b are flowcharts of processes performing content searches, according to various embodiments;

FIGS. 5a and 5b are diagrams of user interfaces utilized in the processes of FIGS. 4a and 4b , according to exemplary embodiments;

FIG. 6 is a flowchart of a process for selecting content using the set-top box of FIG. 2, according to an exemplary embodiment;

FIGS. 7a and 7b are diagrams of user interfaces utilized in the process of FIG. 6, according to exemplary embodiments;

FIG. 8 is a flowchart of a process for sharing content, according to an exemplary embodiment;

FIG. 9 is a diagram of a user interface utilized in the process of FIG. 8, according to an exemplary embodiment; and

FIG. 10 is a diagram of a computer system that can be used to implement various exemplary embodiments.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

A preferred apparatus, method, and software for providing, via set-top box, virtual channels of content accessible over a data network are described. In the following description, for the purposes of explanation, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the preferred embodiments of the invention. It is apparent, however, that the preferred embodiments may be practiced without these specific details or with an equivalent arrangement. In other instances, well-known structures and devices are shown in block diagram form in order to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the preferred embodiments of the invention.

Although various exemplary embodiments are described with respect to a set-top box (STB), it is contemplated that these embodiments have applicability to any device capable of processing audio/video signals for presentation to a user, such as a home communication terminal (HCT), a digital home communication terminal (DHCT), a stand-alone personal video recorder (PVR), a television set, a digital video disc (DVD) player, a video-enabled phone, an audio/video-enabled personal digital assistant (PDA), and/or a personal computer (PC), as well as other like technologies and customer premises equipment (CPE).

FIG. 1 is a diagram of a system capable of providing virtual channels of content accessible over a data network, according to an exemplary embodiment. A system 100 can be configured to present “virtual channels” of media content (e.g., audio, video, and/or photographic transmissions) accessible over a data network (e.g., the Internet) to a user of an STB (e.g., STB 103 a). In this manner, a subscriber of the virtual channel service may seamlessly “tune into” traditional IP-based media at, for example, a display device (not illustrated), such as a high definition television (HDTV) set. It is contemplated that system 100 may embody many forms and include multiple and/or alternative components and facilities.

It is observed that television remains the prevalent global medium for entertainment and information, as individuals spend a great deal of time tuning into televised media. Traditionally, in order to receive television and radio programming, consumers were generally limited to broadcast media sources, e.g., programs acquired “over-the-air” or via cable provider networks. However, users are continually being exposed to an ever increasing amount and variety of multimedia (e.g., audio, video, and photographic content) accessible over various delivery systems, such as data networks. Further, with the advent of the Internet and high-speed data connections, it is not uncommon for consumers to add to this body of available information by publishing libraries of end user originated content on, for instance, hosting sites, such as audio and video-sharing sites. In fact, the growing popularity of sharing content has given rise to entire industries permitting users to upload and make available “homemade” media via data networks and digital media devices. Not surprisingly, the consumer segment is driven, at least in part, by a pervasive desire for access to a wide array of content in an “on-demand” fashion.

For example, internet protocol television (IPTV) service providers are currently offering subscribers various video services ranging from multi-channel video programming that mimics traditional broadcast television, to true video-on-demand (VOD) programming. These services are further supplemented with interactive video applications that enable robust programming information, selection and navigation functionality, as well as integrated digital video recording, and data services to enhance the video experience. These shared protocols create integrated value propositions with regard to accessible content.

In this manner, consumers are becoming accustomed to the tool set of the Internet to “pull” customized content when desired, as apposed to receiving “pushed” content from linear broadcast sources. Thus, content providers must look to the synergistic characteristics of these two infrastructures to leverage upon the streaming services traditionally limited to data networks. In adopting these advancements, however, the media industry faces a number of challenges hindering the convergence of broadband rich data content (e.g., traditional IP-based content) with television infrastructures.

As such, convenient access to these delivery systems will inevitably pave the way for new value-added services for conventional broadcast providers. Thus, the approach according to certain embodiments stems from the recognition that consumers may benefit from ability to experience, via STB, media content traditionally limited to the data domains. However, little attention has been afforded to extending and enhancing the dissemination of content within the entertainment arena, as well as among other commutations media. Thus, it is apparent that improvements are needed to provide consumers with the ability to experience any form of content they want, at any time they desire, using those devices designed to maximize the multimedia experience.

Service provider network 101 integrates the television medium with that of the telecommunications, computing, and media environments, thereby broadening the scope of devices and sources available to individuals for obtaining media content. In this manner, system 100 relieves network operators from the burden and expense of providing parallel avenues to content, by enabling users, via user equipment (e.g., STB 103 a), to receive media content accessible over a data network (e.g., packet-based network 105). Although the user equipment is described with respect to an STB, it is contemplated that various embodiments have applicability to any device capable of processing audio and/or video streams.

In a typical scenario, an individual (e.g., a subscriber of the virtual channel service) may establish a link between a data network source (e.g., content repository 109) and a media service provider (MSP) 111 to create a “virtual channel” of content capable of being experienced at a user premise 113 via an STB (e.g., STB 103 a). Namely, these virtual channels may be provided as in-band adjacent-channels to conventional video broadcasting channels, such as multicast (e.g., live television) or unicast (e.g., stored video) streams. Other implementations may provide virtual channels on a sideband, in the vertical blanking interval, as a subchannel, or using out-of-band signals, as well as any other suitable transmission technique. In this regard, virtual channels may be provided as multiple analog or digital channels offered to subscribers at any suitable frequency or rate (e.g., continuously, periodically, on-demand, etc.). Alternatively, virtual channels may be accessed as though the content were resident on the STB (e.g., STB 103 a).

A media manager application (e.g., media manager 115 a) permits users to easily, effectively, and intuitively locate and specify media content accessible over a data network 105. In other embodiments, one or more media manager applications 115 a-115 c may enable the media content to be retrieved over the data network, and presented to a user via STB (e.g., STB 103 a). Still further, media manager applications 115 a-115 c may enable users to make the specified media content available to other subscribers, i.e., to share virtual channels of content with another STB (e.g., STBs 103 b-103 n). As such, embodiments of the service provider network 101 may also enable individuals utilizing STBs to interact with one another, through personalized communications channels, to further facilitate the processes described herein.

Media content broadly includes any audio-visual content (e.g., broadcast television programs, VOD programs, pay-per-view programs, IPTV feeds, DVD related content, etc.), pre-recorded media content, data communication services content (e.g., commercials, advertisements, videos, movies, songs, images, sounds, etc.), Internet services content (streamed audio, video, or pictographic media), and/or any other equivalent media form. In this manner, the MSP 111 may provide (in addition to their own media content) content obtained from sources, such as one or more television broadcast systems 123, one or more third-party content provider systems 125, content residing in a repository 109 or accessible via server 119, as well as available via one or more packet-based networks 105 or telephony networks 107, etc.

MSP 111 can provide media content that is retrieved over the packet-based network 105, as well as provide conventional media streams. For instance, MSP 111 may provide “virtual channels” to content traditionally limited to host sites, such as end user originated content uploaded to audio, video, and/or pictographic sharing sites. Additionally, the media content may include streamed audio and/or video from conventional broadcast providers.

It is noted that media content can be any type of information provided from any source having connectivity to system 100.

In this manner, media manager applications 115 a and 115 b may be executable, for example, as one or more user interfaces capable of local implementation on an STB (e.g., STB 103 a-103 n) or on an end terminal 117, such as a computer, telephony device, mobile device, or other like mechanism. Thus, exemplary embodiments of media manager applications 115 a and 115 b may be provided through navigation shell applications, e.g., menu applications having options corresponding to different functions. By way of example, computer devices may include desktop computers, notebook computers, servers, terminal workstations, gaming systems, customized hardware, or other equivalent apparatus. Telephony devices may comprise plain-old-telephones, wireless telephones, cellular telephones, satellite telephones, voice over internet protocol telephones, and the like. Mobile devices may include personal digital assistants (PDA), pocket personal computers, smart phones, tablets, handsets, portable gaming systems, and customized hardware, as well as other mobile technologies capable transmitting data. Moreover, STBs 103 a-103 n may be used alone or in combination with one or more end terminal(s) 117 to implement various exemplary embodiments.

The STBs 103 a-103 n and/or terminal 117 can communicate using the packet-based network 105 and/or the telephony network 107. These systems can include: a public data network (e.g., the Internet), various intranets, local area networks (LAN), wide area networks (WAN), the public switched telephony network (PSTN), integrated services digital networks (ISDN), other private packet switched networks or telephony networks, as well as any additional equivalent system or combination thereof. These networks may employ various access technologies including cable networks, satellite networks, subscriber television networks, digital subscriber line (DSL) networks, optical fiber networks, hybrid fiber-coax networks, worldwide interoperability for microwave access (WiMAX) networks, wireless fidelity (WiFi) networks, other wireless networks (e.g., 3G wireless broadband networks, mobile television networks, radio networks, etc.), terrestrial broadcasting networks, provider specific networks (e.g., a Verizon® FiOS® network, a TiVo network, etc), and the like. Such networks may also utilize any suitable protocol supportive of data communications, e.g., transmission control protocol (TCP), internet protocol (IP), file transfer protocol (FTP), telnet, hypertext transfer protocol (HTTP), asynchronous transfer mode (ATM), socket connections, Ethernet, frame relay, and the like, to connect STBs 103 a-135 n to various sources of media content. Although depicted in FIG. 1 as separate networks, packet-based network 105 and/or telephony network 107 may be completely or partially contained within service provider network 101. For example, service provider network 101 may include facilities to provide for transport of packet-based and/or telephony communications.

By way of example, STB 103 a-103 n, as well as terminal 117, can remotely access one or more servers (e.g., server 119), via a communication interface (not illustrated), configured to execute multiple instances of media manager application 115 c. That is, media manager application 115 c may be provided in a distributed fashion using, for instance, client-server architectures, such as implemented by enterprise application service providers (ASP). It is noted that ASP models (and other like architectures) offer system scalability in terms of administrative scalability, geographic scalability, and/or load scalability. Thus, distributed environments are attractive modes for disseminating system 100 functionality to a broad spectrum of users and devices.

For example, server 119 can be an “online” system capable of communicating with one or more third-party web servers (not illustrated), content repositories (e.g., repository 109), or equivalent facilities, to provide users various avenues to locate, specify, receive, and/or share media content that is accessible over a data network (e.g., packet-based network 105). For example, exemplary embodiments of media manger application 115 c may comprise hypertext markup language (HTML) user interfaces or JAVA™ applets stored on server 119 and accessed via world-wide-web pages. These interfaces are particularly useful in extending system 100 functionality to devices having limited resources (e.g., PDAs, handsets, thin-clients, etc.). In alternative embodiments, server 119 is collocated with and/or integrated into MSP 111. As such, multiple users, interfaces, and instances of media manager application 115 c can be simultaneously realized through system 100.

In the example of FIG. 1, STBs 103 a-103 n are located at one or more user premises (e.g., user premise 113), and geospatially associated with one or more regions. STBs 103 a-103 n may be configured to communicate with and receive signals and/or data streams from a MSP 111 (or other transmission facility) in response to processes of one or more media manager application(s) 115 a-115 c. These signals include media content retrieved over a data network (e.g., service provider network 101, packet-based network 105, and/or telephony network 107), as well as conventional video broadcast content.

MSP 111 can include one or more media content servers (not illustrated) and/or data repositories (not shown). Alternatively, user profile repository 121, content repository 109, or server 119 may be accessed via one or more service provider networks 101 and/or packet-based networks 105. Further, service provider network 101 may include a system administrator (not shown) for operational and management functions to deploy the virtual channel service using, for instance, an internet protocol television (IPTV) system. In this manner, STBs 103 a-103 n can utilize any suitable technology to draw, receive, and/or transmit media content from/to an MSP 111 or other content source/sink. A more detailed explanation of an exemplary STB is provided with respect to FIG. 2.

In an exemplary embodiment, STBs 103 a-103 n can draw, receive, and/or transmit content from (or to) multiple sources, thereby alleviating the burden on any single source, e.g., MSP 111, to gather, supply, or otherwise meet the content demands of any user or premise. Thus, particular embodiments enable authenticated third-party television broadcast systems 123, third-party content provider systems 125, and servers (e.g., server 119) to transmit media content accessible over a data network to STBs 103 a-103 n either apart from, or in conjunction with, MSP 111. Such media content may include media regarding traffic, news, sports, current events, breaking stories, commentary, headlines, advertisements, solicitations, financial advice, stocks, markets, events, schools, governments, blog entries, podcasts, and the like. Moreover, media content may be available from authenticated sources, including grassroots groups or individuals, non-profits, governmental organizations, public/private institutions, etc.

The media content may be distinguished (or otherwise categorized) utilizing metadata included therewith or appended thereto. Metadata can be generally considered data about data; but more specifically, it can be utilized to describe all aspects of, and media content distributed by, system 100. Namely, metadata can include descriptions about: data aspects (file name, type, administrator, size, location, version, or include timestamps, mode bits, arbitrary attribute-value pairs, etc.), titles, activities/events, individuals and organizations involved, intended audiences (e.g., ethnicities, ages, genders, incomes, educational levels, disabilities, mobilities, as well as other like demographic statistics), geospatial identifications (intended zip codes, school districts, communities, etc.), locations of supplementary information and processes, access methods, limitations, timing of activities/events (e.g., start/end dates), as well as motivations, policies and rules. As such, metadata may be utilized by various components of system 100 for control or guiding purposes.

In particular embodiments, system 100 may structure and encode metadata to describe characteristics of the content-bearing entities to aid in the identification, discovery, assessment, and management of the media content by media manager applications 115 a-115 c. For example, the metadata can be used to optimize compression algorithms or perform other computational tasks by the components of system 100. The metadata might be utilized to share media content among a plurality of STBs 103 a-103 n. Various other embodiments might use metadata to suggest media content sources of interest to a user based on information stored in a user profile. A more detailed explanation of user profiles is provided with respect to FIG. 2.

In various embodiments, service provider network 101 may include one or more video and/or audio processing modules (not shown) for acquiring and transmitting content feeds (including media content accessible over a data network) from MSP 111, the television broadcast systems 123, the third-party content provider systems 125, or servers 119 over one or more of the networks 101, 105, 107, to particular STBs 103 a-103 n. Accordingly, service provider network 101 may include facilities to support compression/decompression, coding/decoding, modulation/demodulation, optical/electrical conversion, and analog/digital conversion, as well as any other suitable signal processing and/or transmission operation. Further, service provider network 101 can optionally support end-to-end data encryption in conjunction with media content streaming services such that only authorized users are able to experience content and interact with other legitimate users/sources.

Accordingly, system 100 may include an authentication module (not shown) configured to perform authorization/authentication services and determine whether users or content sources are indeed subscribers to, or providers of, the virtual channel service. An authentication schema may require a user name and password, a key access number, a unique machine identifier (e.g., media access control (MAC) address), etc., as well as a combination thereof. Once a subscriber has authenticated a presence on system 100, the user may bypass additional authentication procedures for executing later applications (e.g., media content streaming instances). Data packets, such as cookies, may be utilized for this purpose. Thus, once an STB or content source is authenticated, connections between the STBs 103 a-103 n and the content sources may be established directly or through MSP 111.

In other embodiments, authentication procedures on a first device (e.g., STB 103 a) may identify and authenticate a second device (e.g., terminal 117) communicatively coupled to, or associated with, the first device. Further, the authentication module may grant users the right to receive media content from multiple system 100 sources by revoking existing sets of digital certificates associated with a particular provider, and issuing new sets of digital certificates mapped to a second provider. In this regard, an STB (e.g., STB 103 a) may receive new media content from a second source, whereas the previous session may be automatically closed when the “old” or prior certificates associated with the first source are revoked. This enables users to initiate secure sessions at any given STB 103 a-103 n (or end terminal 117) linked to system 100, whether or not the STB (or end terminal) belongs to that individual user. It is additionally contemplated that multiple rights sessions may exist concurrently.

In particular embodiments, MSP 111 may comprise an IPTV system configured to support the transmission of television video programs from the broadcast systems 123 as well as other content, such as media content from the various third-party sources (e.g., 109, 119, 123, 125) utilizing internet protocol (IP). That is, the IPTV system 111 may deliver signals and/or streams, including media content accessible over a data network, in the form of IP packets. Further, the transmission network (e.g., service provider network 101) may optionally support end-to-end data encryption in conjunction with the streaming services, as previously mentioned.

In this manner, the use of IP permits television services to be integrated with broadband Internet services, and thus, share common connections to a user site. Also, IP packets can be more readily manipulated, and therefore, provide users with greater flexibility in terms of control and offers superior methods for increasing the availability of media content (including content accessible over data networks). Delivery of video content, by way of example, may be through a multicast from the IPTV system 111 to the STBs 103 a-103 n. Any individual STB may tune to a particular source, e.g., virtual channel, by simply joining a multicast (or unicast) of the media content, utilizing an IP group membership protocol (IGMP). For instance, the IGMP v2 protocol may be employed for joining STBs to new multicast (or unicast) groups. Such a manner of content delivery avoids the need for expensive tuners to view media content, such as television broadcasts; however, other delivery methods, such as directly modulated carriers (e.g., national television systems committee (NTSC), advanced television systems committee (ATSC), quadrature amplitude modulation (QAM)), may still be utilized. It is noted that conventional delivery methods may also be implemented and combined with the advanced methods of system 100. Further, the media content, in the form of virtual channels, may be provided to various IP-enabled devices, such as those computing, telephony, and mobile apparatuses previously delineated.

An STB (e.g., STB 103 a) may integrate all the functions of an IPTV system, as well as combine the media content functions of the various online or off-line environments, in a manner that seamlessly toggles among the various system 100 resources. It is contemplated that the virtual channel service may be extended to users with a presence on the Internet. In alternative embodiments, the services of system 100 could be extended to users having an end terminal (not shown), such as a plain old telephone service (POTS) device, connected to the telephony network 111. While system 100 is illustrated in FIG. 1, the exemplary components are not intended to be limiting, and indeed, additional or alternative components and/or implementations may be utilized.

FIG. 2 is a diagram of a set-top box configured to provide virtual channels, according to an exemplary embodiment. STB 201 may comprise any suitable technology to receive one or more content streams from a media source 203, such as the IPTV system of FIG. 1. The content streams include media content retrieved over a data network, in response to commands from one or more media manager application(s) 205 a-205 c, for presentation via STB 201.

Accordingly STB 201 may comprise computing hardware (such as described with respect to FIG. 9) and include additional components configured to provide specialized services related to the reception and display of media content (e.g., remote control capabilities, conditional access functions, tuning functions, presentation functions, multiple network interfaces, audio/video signal ports, etc.). Alternatively, the functions and operations of STB 201 may be governed by a controller 207 that interacts with each of the STB components to provide media content retrieved from an audio or video-sharing site, as well as from another STB device or component of system 100. In turn, a user may be afforded greater functionality utilizing a control device 209 to control these services, as will be more fully described below.

As such, STB 201 may be configured to process a content stream (e.g., streams 211 a-211 c), including causing a media manger application 205 a and/or one or more components of the media content (e.g., video component 213 and/or an audio component) to be presented on (or at) display 215. Presentation of the media content may include: displaying, recording, playing, rewinding, forwarding, toggling, selecting, zooming, or any other processing technique that enables users to experience content streams 211 a-211 c. For instance, STB 201 may provide one or more signals 217 to a display 215 (e.g., television) so that the display 215 may present (e.g., display) the media manager application 205 a overlaid on the media content (e.g., video 213) to a user, wherein the media content includes content retrieved over a data network.

STB 201 may also interact with a PVR, such as digital video recorder (DVR) 219, to store received signals that can then be manipulated by a user at a later point in time. In various embodiments, DVR 219 may be network-based, e.g., included as a part of the service provider network 101, collocated at a subscriber site having connectivity to STB 201, and/or integrated into STB 201. A display 215 may present content provided via STB 201 to a user. In alternative embodiments, STB 201 may be configured to communicate with a number of additional peripheral devices, including: a PC 221, laptops, PDAs, cellular phones, monitors, mobile devices, handheld devices, as well as any other equivalent technology capable of presenting content to a user, such as those computing, telephony, and mobile apparatuses described with respect to FIG. 1.

These peripherals may be configured to implement instances of a media manager application (e.g., media manager application 205 b) to access content stored and/or processed by STB 201. For example, a media content stream 211 a may be received by STB 201 and recorded by DVR 219, wherein PC 221 may later access and view the stored content. Moreover, the peripheral devices may be configured to program or otherwise control the functions of STB 201. For instance, a media manager application 205 b executed on PC 221 may receive input from a user specifying media content that is accessible over a data network. A communication interface (not illustrated) of PC 221 may be configured to retrieve the media content over the data network (e.g., packet-based network 105), wherein STB 201 may receive a media content stream 211 b from PC 221 to present to the user via display 115.

In another embodiment, user input to STB 201 and/or a peripheral device (e.g., PC 221) executing an instance of a media manager application (e.g., media manager application 205 a and/or 205 b) may cause specified media content to be made available at another STB (e.g., STB 103 b-103 n) or a computing, telephony, or mobile device capable of processing audio and/or video streams. Still further, user input to a network-based media manager application 115 c, implemented on, for instance, server 223, may be configured to program or otherwise control the functions of STB 201. For instance, a user may access media manager application 115 c via an end terminal 117 (e.g., PC 221, a mobile handset, etc.), over one or more data networks (e.g., network 101, 105, and/or 107), to locate, specify, share, and/or transmit media content to STB 201. In this manner, server 221 (or other component of system 100, such as MSP 111) may, when suitable, transmit specified media content as stream 211 c to STB 201 for presentation at display 215.

Furthermore, STB 201 may include a communication interface 225 configured to receive content streams from an MSP 111, PC 221, sever 223, or other media content source, such as media source 203. Communication interface 225 may optionally include single or multiple port interfaces. For example, STB 201 may establish a broadband connection to multiple sources transmitting content to STB 201 via a single port, whereas in alternative embodiments, multiple ports may be assigned to the one or more sources. In still other embodiments, communication interface 225 may be configured to permit users, via STB 201, to transmit data (including media content) to other users with STBs, an MSP 111, or other content source/sink.

According to various embodiments, STB 201 may also include inputs/outputs (e.g., connectors 227) to display 215 and DVR 219, as well as an audio system 229. In particular, audio system 229 may comprise a conventional audio-video receiver capable of monaural or stereo sound, as well as multichannel surround sound. Audio system 229 may include speakers, ear buds, headphones, or any other suitable component configured for personal or public dissemination. As such, STB 201, display 215, DVR 219, and audio system 229, for example, may support high resolution audio and/or video streams, such as high definition television (HDTV) or digital theater systems high definition (DTS-HD) audio. Thus, STB 201 may be configured to encapsulate data into a proper format with required credentials before transmitting onto one or more of the networks of FIG. 1 and de-encapsulate incoming traffic to dispatch data to display 215 and/or audio system 229.

In an exemplary embodiment, display 215 and/or audio system 229 may be configured with internet protocol (IP) capability (i.e., includes an IP stack, or is otherwise network addressable), such that the functions of STB 201 may be assumed by display 215 and/or audio system 229. In this manner, an IP ready, HDTV display or DTS-HD audio system may be directly connected to one or more service provider networks 101, packet-based networks 109, and/or telephony networks 111. Although STB 201, display 215, DVR 219, and audio system 229 are shown separately, it is contemplated that these components may be integrated into a single component, or other combination of components.

An authentication module 233 may be provided at STB 201 to initiate or respond to authentication schemes of, for instance, service provider network 101 or various other content providers, e.g., broadcast television systems 123, third-party content provider systems 125, or servers 119. Authentication module 233 may provide sufficient authentication information, e.g., a user name and password, a key access number, a unique machine identifier (e.g., MAC address), and the like, as well as combinations thereof, to a corresponding network interface for establishing connectivity. As described earlier, one or more digital certificates may be simultaneously mapped. Moreover, authentication at STB 201 may identify and authenticate a second device (e.g., PC 221) communicatively coupled to, or associated with, STB 201, or vice versa. Further, authentication information may be stored locally at memory 231, in a repository (not shown) connected to STB 201, or at a remote repository, e.g., user profile repository 121.

Authentication module 233 may also facilitate the reception of data from single or disparate sources. For instance, STB 201 may receive broadcast video from a first source (e.g., IPTV system 111), signals from a media manager application at second source (e.g., server 119), and a media content stream from a third source accessible over a data network (e.g., content repository 109). As such, display 215 may present the broadcast video, media manager application, and media content stream to the user, wherein STB 201 (in conjunction with one or more media manager application(s) 205 a-205 c) can permit users to experience various sources of media content traditionally limited to the data domains. This presentation may be experienced separately, concurrently, in a toggled fashion, or with zooming, maximizing, minimizing, or trick capabilities, or equivalent mode. In other exemplary embodiments, authentication module 233 can authenticate a user to allow them to specify media content that is to be presented to other STBs (e.g., STB 103 a-103 n).

A presentation module 235 may be configured to receive data streams 211 a-211 c (e.g. audio/video feed(s) including media content retrieved over a data network) and output a result via one or more connectors 227 to display 215 and/or audio system 229. In this manner, presentation module 235 may also provide a user interface for media manager application 205 a via display 215. Aural aspects of media manager application 205 a may be presented via audio system 229 and/or display 215. In certain embodiments, media manager application 205 a may be overlaid on the video content output 213 of display 215 via presentation module 235.

In any case, however, the data streams may include content received in response to user input specifying media content that is accessible over a data network (e.g., packet-based network 105, etc.), wherein the content is retrieved from an audio and/or video sharing site. Accordingly, presentation module 235 may provide a list of identifiers to the user for selection of media content to be experienced. Exemplary identifiers may include graphical elements, channels, aural notices, or any other suitable signifier, such as a uniform resource locator (URL), phone number, serial number, registration number, MAC address, code, etc.

Connector(s) 227 may provide various physical interfaces to display 215, audio system 229, as well as other peripherals; the physical interfaces may include, for example, RJ45, RJ11, high definition multimedia interface (HDMI), optical, coax, FireWire, wireless, and universal serial bus (USB), or any other suitable connector. The presentation module 235 may also interact with a control device 209 for determining particular media content that a user desires to experience. In an exemplary embodiment, the control device 209 may comprise a remote control (or other access device having control capability, such as a PC 221, wireless device, mobile phone, etc.) that provides a user with the ability to readily manipulate and dynamically change parameters affecting the media content being viewed. In other examples, STB 201 may be configured for voice recognition such that STB 201 may be controlled with spoken utterances.

In this manner, control device 209 may include (not shown) a cursor controller, trackball, touch screen, touch pad, keyboard, and/or a key pad for activating media manager application 205 a, navigating through broadcast channels and/or media content identifiers, as well as performing other control functions. For instance, control device 209 may be utilized to maximize a media manager application, navigate through displayable interfaces, locate/specify/retrieve media content, modify STB 201 parameters, or toggle through broadcast channels and/or media content identifiers. Control device 209 may also include functional actuators (e.g., buttons, keys, icons, etc.), such as power on/of, play, pause, stop, fast-forward, reverse, volume up/down, channel up/down, menu, ok/enter, record, info, my content, search, edit, or exit, as well as any other suitable control trigger, such as alphanumeric buttons, shift, control, back, symbols, and the like.

Further, the control device 209 may comprise a memory (not illustrated) for storing preferences affecting the media content viewed, which can be conveyed to STB 201 through an input interface 237. The input interface 237 may support any type of wired and/or wireless link, e.g., infrared, radio frequency (RF), BLUETOOTH, and the like. Thus, control device 209 may store user preferences with respect to media content, such as favorite sources, etc. Alternatively, user preferences may be tracked, recorded, or stored in STB 201 or in a network user profile repository 121. The preferences may be automatically retrieved and activated by a user at any time. It is noted that the control device 209 may be separate from STB 201 or may be integrated within STB 201 (in which case certain input interface hardware and/or software may not be necessary).

Particular embodiments enable users, via control device 209, to populate or otherwise configure a user profile. For instance, a user profile application may be provided or accessed by STB 201 to enable users to populate a plurality of entry fields with user information. A user profile may include one or more customized or personalized settings that affect any aspect of media content accessible via STB 201. More specifically, the profile may include: subscription information (account number, user name, password, avatar, moniker, etc.), subscriber demographics (age, gender, ethnicity, location of residence, zip code, school district, community, socioeconomic status, religion, marital status, ownerships, languages, mobility, life cycles, etc.), group/organizational affiliations (e.g., political), memberships, interests, buddies, friends, cohorts, system configurations, policies, associated users/devices, etc., as well as any other like personal information. Additionally, a user profile may include a “whitelist” specifying one or more accessible media content sources/subjects, a “blacklist” specifying one or more media content sources/subjects, as well as other equivalent customized settings, such as color schemes, sound effects, etc.

In other embodiments, the user profile may be established using the additional access devices described earlier, e.g., end terminal 117, such as PC 221. As such, user profile information may be stored in STB 201, e.g., in memory 231, and/or at a user site repository (not illustrated) directly connected to STB 201. Additionally or alternatively, profile information may be stored in a network-based repository (e.g., remote user profile repository 121), control device 209, and/or any other storage medium. Similarly, STB 201 (via memory 231), a user site repository, and/or a network-based repository may store a “MY CONTENT” collection of digital audio, video and/or pictographic content accumulated by a user. This collection may also include a plurality of identifiers (or bookmarks) to media content accessible over a data network, wherein the selection of a particular identifier may cause one or more media manager applications 205 a-205 c to obtain the content from an associated link (either directly from a data network source (e.g., content repository 109) or indirectly from server 119 and/or MSP 111).

Thus, under arrangements of FIGS. 1 and 2, a user may experience (e.g., locate, specify, and receive), as well as share (e.g., transmit) media content including content retrieved over a data network (e.g., packet-based network 105). The operation of STB 201 and one or more media manager applications 205 a-205 c, in conjunction with the components of system 100, will now be described with respect to experiencing and sharing media content retrieved over a data network.

As there may be a relatively large number of media content sources and even more media content instances available to users, STB 201 may include a user interface configured to allow users to seamlessly access the functions of STB 201, the available media content, and one or more of the media manager applications 205 a-205 c. It is recognized; however, that the user interface may be implemented at one or more end terminals 117 (e.g., PC 221) or accessible via server 119 or MSP 111. Thus, the user interface may be displayed to the user as part of a media manager application accessed over a suitable communications link. Namely, web pages may be displayed to the user as part of an online media manager application accessed over an Internet communications link. Accordingly, FIG. 3 is a diagram of a main menu user interface of the set-top box of FIG. 2, according to an exemplary embodiment.

The main menu 300 interface may be evoked using a number of different methods. For example, the user may select a dedicated “MENU” button on control device 209 or a peripheral device communicatively coupled thereto (e.g., PC 221, a mobile handset, etc.). It is recognized that any other suitable actuator of these devices may be additionally, or alternatively, used to access the functionality of main menu 300, such as triggering a “GUIDE” icon. Further, main menu 300 may be evoked by selecting an option within another interface or application (e.g., when navigating from a public screen to a user-specific screen, i.e., a private screen). As such, an executing device (e.g., STB 201, PC 221, etc.) may require sufficient authentication information (e.g., username and password, etc.) to be input in order to access the functions of main menu 300.

As shown, interface (or screen) 300, providing a “Main Menu,” may include one or more interactive viewing panes, such as panes 301 and 303. In particular embodiments, as will be described in more detail below, the content of pane 303 may be dynamically updated to display various information related to actions conducted within pane 301, and vice versa. Pane 301 includes a listing of selectable entries corresponding to one or more features (or options) that may be provided via STB 201. For example, entries can include: program guide listings, DVR options, marketplace (shopping) options, on-demand programming options, media manager features, messaging and communications features, searching options, settings, help features, and the like. In certain embodiments, graphical elements may be provided to correspond to one or more of the entries, and may be displayed therewith.

Header 305 and footer 307 fields may be provided and configured to indicate the existence of additional entries not displayed, but navigably available. Accordingly, users may browse through these entries via, for instance, control device 209. A fixed focus state (e.g., border 309) and/or distinctive magnification features, e.g., color, brightness, holding, font type, text size, etc., may be used to convey a “currently” navigated position. In this manner, when a user navigates to a desired entry, actuation of, for instance, an “OK” button on control device 209 may launch corresponding features and/or applications of the particular entry. In some embodiments, an interactive “OK” option 311 may be utilized. Moreover, main menu 300 may include tooltips (e.g., tooltip 313) when a user navigates to a particular entry. In other embodiments, an aural description of the entry navigated to and methods of interaction may be provided.

In other embodiments, main menu 300 may provide navigation fields 315 and 317 to facilitate usability. For example, field 315 may provide the name of the function/option being accessed, e.g., “MAIN MENU.” In this manner, when a user accesses a new function/option, field 315 is automatically updated, as is apparent in, for example, FIG. 5a . Field 317 may be utilized to indicate the user profile currently authenticated to system 100, e.g., “USER NAME.” Additional functionality of field 317 is described with respect to FIGS. 5a and 5b . Thus, a user may access a media manager application (e.g., media manager application 205 a) by navigating to and selecting entry 319 of main menu 300.

In some embodiments, one or more media manager applications 205 a-205 c may be utilized to specify and search for media content accessible over a data network that is to be presented to a user via STB 201. FIGS. 4a and 4b are flowcharts of processes for specifying and searching for content, according to various embodiments. The processes of FIGS. 4a and 4b will be described in conjunction with FIGS. 5a and 5b , respectively.

In particular, FIG. 4a shows a process for specifying media content accessible over a data network to make available via set-top box, according to an exemplary embodiment. FIG. 5a is a diagram of an exemplary user interface configured for this purpose.

At step 401, a new user subscribes to the virtual channel service utilizing, for instance, STB 201 (which is capable of processing audio and/or video channels/streams). That is, the user may interact with STB 201 using control device 209 to activate software resident on SIB 201, such as media manager application 205 a. The software may then establish one or more connections to service provider network 101 through an IP-based connection. Consequently, the user may register as a new subscriber of the virtual channel service, as well as obtain sufficient authentication information for establishing future sessions.

In certain embodiments, registration procedures may prompt the user to identify all user devices (e.g., STB 201 and/or end terminals 117) that the user may employ to interact with system 100 features, e.g., media manager applications 205 a-205 c. The software may automatically search for peripheral devices, e.g. through a pinging or other suitable procedure. In other embodiments, the user may identify devices by entering appropriate device information, such as: device type, serial number, registration number, MAC address, phone number, communications link, etc. Further, when a new device is employed, the software may add the apparatus to the list of user devices associated with the user's account.

Once registered and/or authenticated, STB 201 may establish communication with MSP 111 for customizing a user profile to embody user-defined attributes or policies for carrying out functions of system 100. Thus, when the user authenticates a presence via, for instance, STB 201, the software may provide user-specific interfaces and features based on information stored within the user profile. Moreover, authentication procedures at one device (e.g., PC 221) may authenticate other devices (e.g., STB 201), as previously described.

After generating a user profile, MSP 111 may store a list of subscribers to the service, as well as a list of subscriber STB identifiers, authentication information, and user-defined profiles. In step 403, the subscriber may interact with, for instance, STB 201 via control device 209, to launch a media manager application (e.g., media manager application 205 a). In one embodiment, the application may be launched from the main menu 300 interface. Other embodiments enable users to execute remote media manager applications (e.g., media manager applications 205 b and 205 c) that may interact with STB 201. At step 405, media manager application may receive user input. For example, a user may specify media content accessible over a data network to be made available via STB 201.

As seen in FIG. 5a , a user may directly enter information identifying particular media content via interface 500. More specifically, interface 500 may comprise panes of a media manager application, e.g., media manager application 205 a. As previously described with respect to main menu 300, interface 500 may include one or more interactive viewing panes 501 and 503 having displays that may be dynamically altered in response to user interaction. Pane 501 may include a list 505 of navigably selectable entries permitting various modes of identifying particular media content, such as audio-sharing site modes, video-sharing site modes, set-top box identifying modes, or other device/source identifying modes. In certain embodiments, a plurality of graphical elements 507 may be provided to correspond to one or more of the entries, and may be displayed therewith. Other selectable entries include search options and my content options that will be described in more detail with respect to FIGS. 4b and 5b -7 b.

Accordingly, users may browse through these entries via, for instance, control device 209. A fixed focus state (e.g., border 509) and/or distinctive magnification features may be used to convey a “currently” navigated position. In this manner, when a user navigates to a desired entry, the display of pane 503 may toggle between corresponding methods of input. For instance, when a user navigates to entry 511, media content from a video-sharing site accessible over a data network (e.g., packet-based network 105), such as a video stream, may be specified (e.g., as seen in pane 503). As such, particular content instances may be identified by a URL, a uniform resource name (URN), a compact uniform resource identifier (CURIE), an extensible resource identifier (XRI), an internationalized resource identifier (IRI), or other suitable address, such as a namespace identifier. In alternative embodiments, identifiers may include path variables, IP addresses, MAC addresses, phone numbers, serial numbers, registration numbers, buddy names, etc., as well as combinations thereof.

Users may input identifier information in box 513 via, for instance, a key pad of control device 209 or an on-screen keyboard (e.g., keyboard 515). Field 517 may be provided as a drop-down list for users to choose between the aforementioned addressing methods. Further, a graphical element 519 may be provided as a reminder of the source type to be input. In this regard, a window 521 may be provided and configured to include listings of media content identifiers previously input, shared from other STBs, recommended by MSP 111, etc. Users may toggle between these listings using a plurality of interactive buttons 523. For instance, interaction with button 525 may cause recommended video streams to be displayed based on previously experienced content or information stored within a user profile. As such, identifiers from the lists may be selected from and automatically input to box 513 to facilitate input efficiencies.

As with main menu 300, navigation fields 527 and 529 may be provided to facilitate usability. In the depicted embodiment, field 527 provides the name of the function/option being accessed, e.g., “MEDIA MANAGER.” Meanwhile, field 529 includes tab 531 indicating a browsing path or thread created by the user during a particular session. Tab 531 may be labeled and made selectable so that the user can easily return to a particular function within the history without having to restart a session. In alternative embodiments, users may navigate session histories via “BACK” and “FORWARD” buttons of control device 209. Furthermore, field 529 indicates a user profile of the current session, e.g., “USER NAME.”

Thus, a user may specify media content that is accessible over a data network (via box 513) by inputting an address (e.g., URL) of the content. Referring back to FIG. 4a , when a user interacts with an “OK” option 533 (or button of control device 209, etc.) the media manager application (per step 407) establishes a link (e.g., virtual channel of content) between the specified source (e.g., “HTTP://WWW.VIDEOSTREAM.COM”) and, for instance, MSP 111. In alternative embodiments the link may be established directly to STB 201 or other peripheral device. Once the link is established, a media manager application may provide an identifier of the virtual channel in a “MY CONTENTS” feature/option. Processes for selecting and experiencing specified media content will be more fully described with respect to FIGS. 6-7 b.

FIG. 4b is a flowchart of a process to search for media content, according to an exemplary embodiment. FIG. 5b is a diagram of an exemplary user interface configured for this purpose. At step 421, an authenticated user may navigate to a search feature (e.g., entry 535 of FIG. 5a ) of a media manager application (e.g., media manager application 205 a). Doing so may dynamically modify pane 503 to present various search options, such as browse subject areas (e.g., media content regarding traffic, news, sports, current events, etc., including those previously delineated), browse available content providers/sources (e.g., broadcasters, grassroots groups, public or private institutions, etc., including those previously described), search by keyword (e.g., actor, program title, publication date/time, program description, genre, rating, or any other suitable search string), and/or search by content type (e.g., media content taking the form of audio streams, video streams, pictographic content, etc.), as well as any other suitable search option.

In particular embodiments, various search options may be combined or strung together by logical operators/connectors, e.g., and, or, not, etc. Thus, search options of a media manager application may allow the user to perform complex (or Boolean) searches. Certain other embodiments enable users to implement third party search engines accessible over a data network, e.g., Google, wherein corresponding search results may be automatically ported to the media manager application or simply “copied and pasted” when necessary.

In any case, (per step 423) the user may navigate to, for instance, the search by keyword option and launch the method via control device 209 or other suitable actuator, such as a displayed interactive button (e.g., similar to “OK” option 533). After selection, interface 500 may be dynamically modified to interface 550 (as seen in FIG. 5b ). In this manner, navigation field 527 continues to indicate user implementation of the “MEDIA MANAGER” functions/options of, for instance, STB 201. Meanwhile, navigation field 529 dynamically modifies tab 531 to a plurality of tabs 551 indicating a “current” browsing path/thread. As with interface 500, tabs 531 may be labeled and made selectable so that the user can easily return to a particular function without having to restart a session. Furthermore, panes 501 and 503 adapt to panes 553 and 555, respectively.

At step 425, the user may input a suitable search term to the media manager application, via information box 557. An on-screen keyboard 559 may be provided to facilitate input procedures or other suitable input method may be employed, e.g., input via control device 209, PC 221, or other communicatively coupled end terminal 117. In the depicted embodiment, the characters “BAT” have been input into information field 557. Per step 427, the media manager application may retrieve and provide (via pane 555) a list of results corresponding to the “BAT” sequence. These results may be acquired via metadata correlation, i.e., based on available media content descriptions related to the input sequence of box 557. In certain embodiments, the list of search results may be dynamically updated in real-time as the user inputs information to box 557. Such a process enables users to efficiently narrow the list of results. Still other embodiments enable users to implement additional search methods to narrow the results. Further, header and footer fields (e.g., footer field 561) may be provided to indicate additional results.

Accordingly, the list of entries (e.g., entries 563 a-563 e) within pane 555 may be of varying type and may be accompanied by graphical elements to facilitate user recognition. For example, pane 555 may include one or more results (e.g., result 563 a) that include an expandable list of related media content instances associated with a particular source, e.g., a video sharing site. As such, a graphical element may depict a server and folder to indicate multiple results from “VIDEO SHARING SITE.” Results 563 b (i.e., a video stream) and 563 c (i.e., an audio stream), as well as the corresponding graphical elements, may indicate single media content instances available via particular audio/video sharing-sites. Meanwhile, results 563 d and 563 e may relate to virtual channels of media content made available (e.g., shared) by another authenticated STB (e.g., STB 103 b and 103 c).

Users may then select search results to make available via STB (e.g., STB 201). That is, a user may navigate to a particular entry using, for instance, control device 209. A fixed focus state (e.g., border 565) and/or distinctive magnification features may be implemented to convey a “current” position. The user may then interact with an “OK” option 567 or other suitable selection method (e.g., actuating an “ENTER” button on control device 209) to specify a particular result, including results comprising media content that is accessible over a data network. In turn, the media manager application may establish a link (e.g., virtual channel of content) between the specified source and, for instance, MSP 111. In alternative embodiments the link may be established directly to STB 201 or other device. Established links may be stored in a “MY CONTENTS” feature/option as a suitable identifier for later selection, as will be more fully described below.

In particular embodiments, interface 550 may include window 569 configured to provide users short descriptions and/or characteristics of content instances highlighted by fixed focus state 565. This information may be acquired via metadata, retrieved from MSP 111, or received in response to a request transmitted to a third party, e.g., content provider system 125. In other embodiments, window 569 may present information, such as a video stream, e.g., a broadcast television show, to effectuate multitasking. In this manner, a user may keep informed while conducting search procedures.

Other embodiments enable users to experience specified media content by selecting one or more identifier(s) of the content. FIG. 6 is a flowchart of a process to display and select content to experience using the set-top box of FIG. 2, according to an exemplary embodiment. FIGS. 7a and 7b are diagrams of exemplary user interfaces configured for this purpose.

At step 601, an authenticated user may navigate to a “MY CONTENT” feature/option (e.g., entry 537 of FIG. 5a ) of a media manager application (e.g., media manager application 205 a). As a result, pane 503 may be dynamically modified to present a plurality of features and/or options, such as audio directories, image directories, video directories, search my content features, and share my content features, as well as any other suitable feature/option, e.g., playlist features or synchronization options. In alternative embodiments, the “MY CONTENT” feature may be launched, thereby dynamically adapting interface 500 to interface 700. It is also noted that the “MY CONTENT” feature may be nested (alternatively or additionally) as an entry of main menu 300 (of FIG. 3). Moreover, selecting a “MY CONTENT” option at one interface may launch a corresponding “MY CONTENT” instance at another interface (or device), e.g., selecting entry 537 may launch a nested “MY CONTENT” instance of main menu 300.

In this manner, any of the “MY CONTENT” instances may receive and/or port data from one or more media manager applications (e.g., media manager application 205 a-205 c), or one or more “MY CONTENT” instances, to carry out the processes described below. Additionally (or alternatively), various “MY CONTENT” instances may be synchronized. For instance, modifications via media manager application 205 c may automatically cause corresponding modifications to a “MY CONTENT” instance of STB 201. Synchronization signals may be transmitted directly between interested components (e.g., between server 119 and STB 201) or may be funneled through MSP 111. In alternative embodiments, users may be required to conduct an “UPDATE MY CONTENT” feature (via STB 201) to effectuate synchronization, e.g., by actuating a corresponding menu option, interface entry, control device button, or other like procedure. Accordingly, users may be presented with the most current media content available.

As seen in FIG. 7a , interface 700 relates to a launched “MY CONTENT” feature of a media manager application (e.g., media manager application 205 a), per step 601. Interface 700 includes dynamically modified, interactive viewing panes 701 and 703. Fields 705 and 707 may be provided to facilitate macro-navigation, as previously described. Also, header and/or footer fields (e.g., footer field 709) may be provided to facilitate micro-navigation, as previously described. In this manner, pane 701 may include a plurality of features (and/or options) 711, e.g., audio directories 713, image directories 715, video directories 717, search my content features 719, and share my content features 721, as well as any other suitable feature/option, e.g., playlist features (not illustrated) or synchronization options (not illustrated). Further, a plurality of corresponding graphical elements 723 may be included to facilitate user recognition of the plurality of features 711 and/or type of media content accessible therein.

Referring back to FIG. 6, a user may navigate to a specified media content instance, per step 603, via suitable method (e.g., using control device 209). For instance, navigation to audio directory 713 may cause pane 703 to dynamically display user defined categories 725 of available media content including, but certainly not limited to, “JAZZ/BLUES” directories, “ROCK” directories, “HIPHOP/R&B” directories, “COUNTRY” directories, and the like. Graphical elements 727, e.g., audio file folders, may be provided to indicate further browsing capability and type of media content accessible therein. Thus, if a user navigates to and selects the “HIPHOP/R&B” directory, interface 700 may be dynamically modified to interface 770 of FIG. 7 b.

In this manner, pane 751 now provides the plurality of user-defined categories 725 and corresponding graphical elements 727. The user-defined categories 725 can include different categories. This is done to further demonstrate exemplary breadth of media content accessible over a data network that can be made available to STB users. Moreover, pane 753 may provide a listing 755 of selectable media content identifiers 757 a-757 d and a corresponding plurality of graphical elements 759, wherein identifiers 757 a and 757 b demonstrate audio content stored to a repository of (or accessibly by) STB 201 (e.g., memory 231). Identifier 757 c illustrates a virtual channel of content accessible over a data network, such as from an audio-sharing site. Meanwhile, identifier 757 d demonstrates a media content made available by another device, e.g., another STB. Further, field 707 may be dynamically updated to correlate to a “current” browsing thread.

Fixed focus state 761 may illustrate a “currently” navigated position. As such, the user may select, for instance, a “DISCOVER HIPHOP” audio stream identifier 757 c via, for instance, control device 209, on-screen “OK” option 763, or by another suitable method. Upon selection, one or more media manager application(s) 205 a-205 c may retrieve (per step 605) a corresponding audio stream over, for instance, a data network (e.g., packet-based network 105) via a previously established link, i.e., virtual channel of content. In alternative embodiments, a media manager application may indirectly acquire the media content via MSP 111, wherein MSP 111 retrieves the media content over a data network (e.g., telephony network 107). In step 607, one or more media manager applications may transmit received media content to STB 201 (namely presentation module 235) for presentation to the user via, for instance, display 215.

Accordingly, STB 201 may present the selected content to a user while it is being transmitted or may, instead, wait until the stream is completely downloaded before formatting the signal and presenting it to the user. In other instances, selection of a media content identifier may tune STB 201 to a virtual channel of MSP 111. It is also contemplated that users may create playlists of virtual content channels.

Exemplary embodiments also enable users to make specified media content available at another STB. FIG. 8 is a flowchart of a process to share content, according to an exemplary embodiment. FIG. 9 is a diagram of an exemplary user interface configured for this purpose.

In step 801, an authenticated user launches a “SHARE MY CONTENT” feature (e.g., entry 721 of FIG. 7a ) of one or more media manager applications (e.g., media manager application 205 a). As such, a user may be presented with options, such as “SHARE MY AUDIO,” “SHARE MY IMAGES,” and “SHARE MY VIDEO.” In one embodiment, these options may launch instances of corresponding “MY CONTENT” directories 713, 715, and 717, respectively. As seen in FIG. 9, interface 900 depicts an exemplary “SHARE MY AUDIO” instance of “AUDIO” directory 713. Accordingly, interface 900 may include dynamically modified, interactive panes 901 and 903. Pane 901 may provide, for instance, a plurality of navigable directories 905. Meanwhile, pane 903 may include a list 907 of particular media content instances that may be made available at another STB. The list may include media content identifiers, such as locally stored files of STB 201 (e.g., song 907 a and 907 b), virtual channels of content (e.g., channel 907 c to an audio-sharing site), and media content made available by another device (e.g., virtual channel 907 d from “Jane's” STB), as well as other suitable media content.

At step 803, the user may navigate to and select content to make available at another STB. For example, the user (via control device 209) may position a fixed focus state 909 around identifier 907 c and select “OK” option 911. Interaction with option 911 may cause information box 913 to “pop up” for a user to specify a sharing policy, such as one or more STB(s) to make the virtual channel available at. Namely, the user may identify one or more STBs by, for instance, a MAC address, phone number, or other suitable identifier, such as those identifiers previously mentioned. Other policies, such as time limits, share dates, etc. may be established. Interaction with “OK” option 915 may cause the media manager application to transmit the virtual channel (e.g., as an identifier) to the appropriate device, i.e., STB having the MAC address 11:22:33:44:55:66. A receiving STB user may then accept or decline the virtual channel. In some embodiments, information stored within a user profile may automatically accept or decline received virtual channels. In other embodiments, shared links may be added to a recommended list presented, for example, via window 521 of FIG. 5 a.

The following example will serve to illustrate a global process of system 100. For example, a user may, during a break at work, decide to search for media content available at an audio or video-sharing site. The user may access an online media manager application 205 c available via server 119 over packet-based network 105 (e.g., the Internet), using for instance a first end terminal 117 (e.g., a PC). As such, the user may implement the process of FIG. 4b utilizing interface 550 of FIG. 5b . Upon entering suitable search terms, media manager application 115 c may return a list of results, e.g., URL addresses, correlated to the user's request using, for example, metadata supplied by MSP 111. After reading the aforementioned URL address, however, the power may go out at the user's workplace.

Nevertheless, the user may decide to establish a virtual content channel to make available at their home STB (e.g., STB 103 a at user premise 113) via a second end terminal 117 (e.g., a cellular phone), instead of waiting until later. Accordingly, the user may execute media manager application 115 b implemented on their handset. Media manager application 115 b may be a thin-client version or fully functional version of, for instance, media manager application 115 c. In any event, the user may implement the process of FIG. 4a using, for example, interface 500 of FIG. 5a . In this manner, the user may input a URL address, wherein media manager application 115 b may establish a link between the video-sharing site and MSP 111, via signals transmitted over telephony network 107. Once the link is created, an identifier of the virtual channel may be stored to a “MY CONTENT” collection of the mobile device. Yet, as the mobile device may have limited memory, the identifier may instead (or additionally) be stored to a networked repository, e.g., repository 121.

When the user arrives home, they may implement the process of FIG. 6, via STB 201, using for example interfaces 300, 500, 700 and 750 of FIGS. 3, 5 a, 7 a, and 7 b. As such, when the user selects the “MY CONTENT” option 537 of interface 500, media manager application 115 a may automatically synchronize media content instances with repository 121, thus updating the virtual channel identifiers located under the “VIDEO” directory 717. Upon selection, media manager application 115 a may tune to a virtual channel of media content transmitted from MSP 111 to STB 103 a (via communications interface 225), wherein the media content was retrieved from repository 109 over, for instance, packet-based network 105.

During the presentation, however, MSP 111 may transfer the media content to a third end terminal 117 of the user, such as the user's home PC (e.g., PC 221). In this manner, PC 221 (via media manager application 115 b) may obtain the specified video stream via the previously established link or may, alternatively (or additionally) obtain the media content directly from repository 109. Media manager application 115 b may then transmit the media content stream (alone or in conjunction with MSP 111), to STB 103 a, via communications interface 225, wherein presentation module 235 may decode and reformat the stream for presentation via display 215 and/or audio system 229.

During viewing of the video stream, the user may decide to make the virtual content channel available to one or more friends' STBs 103 b-103 n, who may not have the time to establish the virtual content channel themselves. Thus, via a media manager application 115 a, 115 b, or 115 c, the user may carry out the process of FIG. 8 using for example interface 900 of FIG. 9. As such, the executed media manager application (e.g., media manager application 115 a) may transmit the identifier to one or more of STBs 103 b-103 n.

The processes described herein for providing, via set-top box, virtual channels of content accessible over a data network may be implemented via software, hardware (e.g., general processor, Digital Signal Processing (DSP) chip, an Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC), Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs), etc.), firmware or a combination thereof. Such exemplary hardware for performing the described functions is detailed below.

FIG. 10 illustrates computing hardware (e.g., computer system) 1000 upon which an embodiment according to the invention can be implemented. The computer system 1000 includes a bus 1001 or other communication mechanism for communicating information and a processor 1003 coupled to the bus 1001 for processing information. The computer system 1000 also includes main memory 1005, such as a random access memory (RAM) or other dynamic storage device, coupled to the bus 1001 for storing information and instructions to be executed by the processor 1003. Main memory 1005 can also be used for storing temporary variables or other intermediate information during execution of instructions by the processor 1003. The computer system 1000 may further include a read only memory (ROM) 1007 or other static storage device coupled to the bus 1001 for storing static information and instructions for the processor 1003. A storage device 1009, such as a magnetic disk or optical disk, is coupled to the bus 1001 for persistently storing information and instructions.

The computer system 1000 may be coupled via the bus 1001 to a display 1011, such as a cathode ray tube (CRT), liquid crystal display, active matrix display, or plasma display, for displaying information to a computer user. An input device 1013, such as a keyboard including alphanumeric and other keys, is coupled to the bus 1001 for communicating information and command selections to the processor 1003. Another type of user input device is a cursor control 1015, such as a mouse, a trackball, or cursor direction keys, for communicating direction information and command selections to the processor 1003 and for controlling cursor movement on the display 1011.

According to an embodiment of the invention, the processes described herein are performed by the computer system 1000, in response to the processor 1003 executing an arrangement of instructions contained in main memory 1005. Such instructions can be read into main memory 1005 from another computer-readable medium, such as the storage device 1009. Execution of the arrangement of instructions contained in main memory 1005 causes the processor 1003 to perform the process steps described herein. One or more processors in a multi-processing arrangement may also be employed to execute the instructions contained in main memory 1005. In alternative embodiments, hard-wired circuitry may be used in place of or in combination with software instructions to implement the embodiment of the invention. Thus, embodiments of the invention are not limited to any specific combination of hardware circuitry and software.

The computer system 1000 also includes a communication interface 1017 coupled to bus 1001. The communication interface 1017 provides a two-way data communication coupling to a network link 1019 connected to a local network 1021. For example, the communication interface 1017 may be a digital subscriber line (DSL) card or modem, an integrated services digital network (ISDN) card, a cable modem, a telephone modem, or any other communication interface to provide a data communication connection to a corresponding type of communication line. As another example, communication interface 1017 may be a local area network (LAN) card (e.g. for Ethernet™ or an Asynchronous Transfer Model (ATM) network) to provide a data communication connection to a compatible LAN. Wireless links can also be implemented. In any such implementation, communication interface 1017 sends and receives electrical, electromagnetic, or optical signals that carry digital data streams representing various types of information. Further, the communication interface 1017 can include peripheral interface devices, such as a Universal Serial Bus (USB) interface, a PCMCIA (Personal Computer Memory Card International Association) interface, etc. Although a single communication interface 1017 is depicted in FIG. 10, multiple communication interfaces can also be employed.

The network link 1019 typically provides data communication through one or more networks to other data devices. For example, the network link 1019 may provide a connection through local network 1021 to a host computer 1023, which has connectivity to a network 1025 (e.g. a wide area network (WAN) or the global packet data communication network now commonly referred to as the “Internet”) or to data equipment operated by a service provider. The local network 1021 and the network 1025 both use electrical, electromagnetic, or optical signals to convey information and instructions. The signals through the various networks and the signals on the network link 1019 and through the communication interface 1017, which communicate digital data with the computer system 1000, are exemplary forms of carrier waves bearing the information and instructions.

The computer system 1000 can send messages and receive data, including program code, through the network(s), the network link 1019, and the communication interface 1017. In the Internet example, a server (not shown) might transmit requested code belonging to an application program for implementing an embodiment of the invention through the network 1025, the local network 1021 and the communication interface 1017. The processor 1003 may execute the transmitted code while being received and/or store the code in the storage device 1009, or other non-volatile storage for later execution. In this manner, the computer system 1000 may obtain application code in the form of a carrier wave.

The term “computer-readable medium” as used herein refers to any medium that participates in providing instructions to the processor 1003 for execution. Such a medium may take many forms, including but not limited to non-volatile media, volatile media, and transmission media. Non-volatile media include, for example, optical or magnetic disks, such as the storage device 1009. Volatile media include dynamic memory, such as main memory 1005. Transmission media include coaxial cables, copper wire and fiber optics, including the wires that comprise the bus 1001. Transmission media can also take the form of acoustic, optical, or electromagnetic waves, such as those generated during radio frequency (RF) and infrared (IR) data communications. Common forms of computer-readable media include, for example, a floppy disk, a flexible disk, hard disk, magnetic tape, any other magnetic medium, a CD-ROM, CDRW, DVD, any other optical medium, punch cards, paper tape, optical mark sheets, any other physical medium with patterns of holes or other optically recognizable indicia, a RAM, a PROM, and EPROM, a FLASH-EPROM, any other memory chip or cartridge, a carrier wave, or any other medium from which a computer can read.

Various forms of computer-readable media may be involved in providing instructions to a processor for execution. For example, the instructions for carrying out at least part of the embodiments of the invention may initially be borne on a magnetic disk of a remote computer. In such a scenario the remote computer loads the instructions into main memory and sends the instructions over a telephone line using a modem. A modem of a local computer system receives the data on the telephone line and uses an infrared transmitter to convert the data to an infrared signal and transmit the infrared signal to a portable computing device, such as a personal digital assistant (PDA) or a laptop. An infrared detector on the portable computing device receives the information and instructions borne by the infrared signal and places the data on a bus. The bus conveys the data to main memory, from which a processor retrieves and executes the instructions. The instructions received by main memory can optionally be stored on storage device either before or after execution by processor.

While certain exemplary embodiments and implementations have been described herein, other embodiments and modifications will be apparent from this description. Accordingly, the invention is not limited to such embodiments, but rather to the broader scope of the presented claims and various obvious modifications and equivalent arrangements. 

What is claimed is:
 1. A method comprising: presenting, on a display associated with a set-top box, a user interface that permits a user to search for media content that is accessible by way of the set-top box, the user interface comprising a navigation field that displays a plurality of tabs indicating a browsing thread for a current browsing session, each of the tabs included in the plurality of tabs is selectable by the user to return to a previous tab without having to restart the current browsing session, and one of the tabs included in the plurality of tabs corresponding to a share content tab that facilitates sharing by the user of the media content with an additional set-top box over a network, a first interactive pane that includes a plurality of navigable directories associated with the share content tab, and a second interactive pane that includes a listing of media content instances that are associated with a particular directory included in the plurality of navigable directories and that are available to be shared with the additional set-top box over the network; receiving a first input from the user to select a particular media content instance included in the listing of the media content instances; presenting, in response to the first input, a pop up information box within the second interactive pane; receiving a second input from the user specifying, within the pop up information box presented within the second interactive pane, a sharing policy that indicates that the particular media content instance is to be made available to the additional set-top box; and transmitting, in response to the second input specifying of the sharing policy, a link to the particular media content instance to the additional set-top box, wherein the link facilitates access by the additional set-top box to the particular media content instance.
 2. The method according to claim 1, wherein the media content is video content accessible by way of a video-sharing site.
 3. The method according to claim 1, wherein the media content is audio content accessible by way of an audio-sharing site.
 4. The method of claim 1, wherein the link is transmitted to the additional set-top box by way of an end terminal that includes a computing device, a mobile device, or a telephony device.
 5. The method of claim 4, further comprising presenting the particular media content instance to the user via the additional set-top box.
 6. The method of claim 1, wherein the link generates a virtual channel to the particular media content instance among broadcast channels accessible via the additional set-top box, the virtual channel provided through one of an in-band adjacent-channel to the broadcast channels, a sideband, a vertical blanking interval, a subchannel, and an out-of-band signal.
 7. The method of claim 6, wherein the link is transmitted to the additional set-top box from an end terminal or a facility of a service provider.
 8. The method of claim 7, wherein the additional set-top box is associated with another user.
 9. The method of claim 1, wherein the link identifies the particular media content instance with at least a Uniform Resource Locator (URL).
 10. A set-top box apparatus comprising: a presentation module that presents a user interface for display on a display associated with the set-top box apparatus, the user interface receives a first input from a user, during a current browsing session, to select a particular media content instance included in media content accessible by way of the set-top box apparatus, wherein the user interface comprises a navigation field that displays a plurality of tabs indicating a browsing thread for the current browsing session, each of the tabs included in the plurality of tabs is selectable by the user to return to a previous tab without having to restart the current browsing session, and one of the tabs included in the plurality of tabs corresponding to a share content tab that facilitates sharing by the user of the media content with an additional set-top apparatus box over a network, a first interactive pane that includes a plurality of navigable directories associated with the share content tab, and a second interactive pane that includes a listing of media content instances that are associated with a particular directory included in the plurality of navigable directories and that are available to be shared with the additional set-top box apparatus over the network, wherein the presentation module further presents, in response to the first input, a pop up information box within the second interactive pane; wherein the user interface further receives a second input from the user specifying, within the pop up information box presented within the second interactive pane, a sharing policy that indicates that the particular media content instance is to be made available to the additional set-top box apparatus; and a communication interface that transmits, in response to the second input specifying of the sharing policy, a link to the particular media content instance to the additional set-top box apparatus, wherein the link facilitates access by the additional set-top box apparatus to the particular media content instance.
 11. The set-top box apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the media content is video content accessible by way of a video-sharing site.
 12. The set-top box apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the media content is audio content accessible by way of an audio-sharing site.
 13. The set-top box apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the link comprises a Uniform Resource Locator (URL).
 14. The set-top box apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the link generates a virtual channel to the particular media content instance among broadcast channels accessible via the additional set-top box apparatus, the virtual channel provided through one of an in-band adjacent-channel to the broadcast channels, a sideband, a vertical blanking interval, a subchannel, and an out-of-band signal.
 15. The set-top box apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the additional set-top box apparatus is associated with another user. 